YouTube Premium could be the only way to see 4K videos on the site

Beginning in early October of 2022, YouTube Premium subscribers will have access to:

YouTube is reportedly exploring another strategy to raise money after testing up to 10 non-skippable adverts before videos. In the future, only YouTube Premium subscribers will have access to 4K content. Without any response from Google, we can only hope this is merely another test that will remain unreleased.

Google experimented with showing up to 10 non-skippable ads before videos back in August, but thankfully the feature never left the testing phase. Now, it seems like Google is looking into a new feature that could boost YouTube Premium subscriptions and, by extension, the platform's revenue. Unfortunately, regular YouTube viewers who appreciate 4K videos will need a membership if this function moves beyond the trial stage.

Reddit user Ihatesmokealarms provided a screenshot showing 2160p beside "Premium - Tap to upgrade" while viewing a full HD video. Google has stayed mute on the topic. According to my device's records, the reported restriction isn't being tested or imposed in Romania.

The maximum resolution for which YouTube will provide free access is 1440p if the aforementioned experimental feature is implemented (depends on the video format, since most videos available use the ubiquitous 1080p resolution and then go straight up to 4K). At US$11.99 per month, YouTube Premium is more expensive than other streaming media providers. In any case, if Google is serious about making the change above so that more people will switch to Premium, it would be wise for them to lower the price by a few dollars as well.